Interesting Facts- You can believe it or challenge it!
This blog contains some of the more unusual or interesting facts I have come across while researching my blogs.
If you are not convinced if it is true I challenge you to use AI such as Gemini, Siri, Co Pilot, ChatGPT or ‘OK Google’. And feel free to comment and share any information you find.
Fact – True of False???
30 different plants each week will keep your microbiome happy.
- YOLO – A new acronym meaning ‘You Only Live Once’
- Many older people report feeling younger than their age. That’s me!!
- Cognitive exercises such as puzzles, learning a new skill, reading, playing a new sport can help maintain cognitive function in older age.
- Many older adults report feeling happier than when they were younger.
- Many older adults are very active and still work or volunteer in their communities. This helps contribute to society and breaks down stereotypes of ageism.
- Many older adults are embracing technology using social media, video calls and even AI!!
- I recently did a certificate course on AI- who believes this?
- Many older adults are involved in lifelong learning, taking courses, starting a new business or pursuing new hobbies. That’s me, learning more about AI.
- Many older adults provide significant family support such as caring for grandchildren, financial support, accommodation or helping with household tasks or chores.
- Higher Omega 3 levels are linked to less risk of current anxiety or depression as well as less risk of developing anxiety or depression over time.
- Wholemeal buns can be transformed into hamburger buns by simply flattening the top. Commercial hamburger buns have other ingredients such as extra sugar, fats and preservatives. I asked at the Bakery at Woolworths, they told me their buns and hamburger rolls have identical ingredients just flattened before cooking to make it the typical hamburger bun!
- Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and causes of diseases and other health related events in populations.
- The average lifespan has increased significantly in the last century.
- Pickleball is a new sport that is becoming hugely popular with older adults.
- A pescatarian is someone who doesn’t eat meat but has a vegetarian diet it is plant based but includes fish, seafood.
- Capers taste amazing with seafood and are a great source of antioxidants, Vitamin K and fiber. Rinse them before eating as they can contain too much sodium (salt). I love them with smoked salmon and lemon juice!
- Caper berries are a big caper on a stem. They taste so delicious on their own or on an antipasto platter. But hard to find. Please let me know if you know where I can buy them.
- I love growing sprouts. They are so easy to grow and are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Plus, they can be added to any meal including salads, soups, stews.
- To make a powerhouse smoothie just add raw peeled beetroot, ginger, spinach, water then blend. Yum
- Mushrooms if left outside in the sun for a short while with their gills facing up will significantly increase their Vitamin D levels. So, you get more of it when you consume them.
- Caviar is a great source of Omega 3, Vitamin B12, selenium and Iron. High in sodium so use in moderation.
- Finger limes ooze with a tangy, light, tasty citrus flavor. They contain tiny balls of flavor that burst in your mouth. They pare well with cheese and seafood.
- Who said, ‘Everything in moderation?’
- The microbiome is like a garden or tiny city living inside our bodies. Feed it at least 30 plants each week and your microbiome will be very happy, and it will improve your gut health.
- 30 plants each week sounds a lot, but scientists recommend trying to eat 30 different plants each week. These 30 foods per week include vegetables, grains, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds and herbs and spices not really that hard to reach that goal!
- In 1953 researchers for the first time compared the health of bus drivers (who sat all day) and bus conductors (who climbed 500-700 stairs a day on London double decker buses). The result was that physical activity plays a crucial role in health, specifically in reducing the risk of coronary heart diseases. This proved that physical activity not just genetics, directly protects the heart.
- In 2026 I am going to learn how to do Irish Dancing. Its a fantastic workout for your legs!
- Do you know why Irish Dancers don’t move their arms when dancing? During the 18th century dancing was restricted by British rule. The Window Trick according to Legend says the Irish would keep their upper bodies perfectly still so British soldiers who were passing by their windows could not see them dancing as their torso was still but their legs would be moving at lightning speed!
My main goal for 2026 is look after my microbiome by eating 30 different plants each week and sticking to clean, home cooked meals that are as close to their natural state as possible.
Well, that’s all folks for 2025! Thank you to everyone who reads and comments on my posts. I hope you find some of the information useful for your own health as we work on the journey to becoming healthy centenarians.
Best wishes for a Happy, Healthy New Year.
Till 2026- ‘Keep on Rocking and Rolling’
Kim